Healing Wise

Herbal Allies for Painful Breasts

Hi,

I am having pain in my right breast that has been for several weeks now.  I do not have mammograms but do have ultra-sound exams. My last ultra-sound was 2 years ago due to a car accident I was in and had several x-rays of my chest. 

I praying this isn't anything and I am so nervous.  I am perimenopausal, 54 soon to be 55.  I really need to know what herb or infusion I can take that may help with this pain and would appreciate if I could speak with her as soon as possible as again, I am so nervous. 

Thank you and look forward to hearing from you.

Hello,

Certainly it is a natural reaction to be nervous and filled with worry, but do try your best to remain positive. Although breast cancer can cause pain, usually that is not the case. Practicing regular breast massage with infused oils is highly recommended by Susun. Taking time to lavish attention and love on that part of ourselves really does help to keep it healthy, even scientists are understanding how much visualization, prayer, meditation and affirmations make a difference. 

Here is one of Susun's articles on breast massage - see if you can locate any of these herbs and oils to start:

http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/May09/breasthealth.htm

http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/June09/breasthealth.htm

For painful breasts, cabbage leaf poultices work well and of course, material is easy to find at any grocery store. Simply boil or steam some leaves and apply them hot to breast, leaving on for at least 15 minutes. Violet leaves seem to have a special affinity for the breast, so doing a massage with infused oil is good. Susun also recommends making an infusion with the violet leaves, drink 1/2 of it and then heat the other half with the leaves and apply material to breast, keeping on as long as possible. St. Joans/St. John's wort oil would be good to use for massaging as well, penetrating nerve endings and easing pain. 

Drink lots of oatstraw infusions. This not only helps to calm nerves and easy anxiety but also increases the insulating sheaths of the nerves, reducing pain. Also skullcap tincture helps with pain and nerves. Use 4-10 drops for minor pain, up to 25-50 drops at a time for severe pain, repeating every 15 minutes until pain is alleviated. 

Let us know when you find out more. Lots of love and good thoughts to you.

 

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

 

 

 

Breast Cancer and Nutrition

Hello!

I was just referred by a girl at work. It sounds very healthy! I read your good article on breast cancer. Currently i'm on an 'eating program' to keep my breast cancer at bay, going well now for 6 years ... but
one really important thing I'm missing reading in the article ... SUGAR! My nutritionist working on her master's says that cancer LIVES in sugar, and I don't hear even my surgeon or providers telling their patients to cut down or eliminate sugar.

Even the Endocrinology doctors in the office don't much emphasize how very much eliminating sugar does definitely eliminate high blood sugars ... a friend, for one example, began my eating program -NO SUGAR - and went off her insulin after only one week! So much to learn. Well, thank you for listening.

Hello,

Many thanks for writing us about your personal story. No doubt limited amounts of white sugar is a very important part of not only preventing and working through cancer but of vibrant health in general. For many of us, we follow the guidelines of the Nourishing Traditions diet, along with avoiding white sugar, white flour, and drinking daily herbal infusions as part of maintaining good health. I don't know what articles you've read as Susun has quite a few on breast cancer and nutrition, but I'll include a few links if you wish to follow them.

So very glad that things are going well and that you have been able to work with your own body to find what it needs.

http://www.ashtreepublishing.com/Book_Breast_Cancer_Anti-cancer-lifestyle.htm

http://www.susunweed.com/How_to_make_Infusions.htm

 

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

 

Wise Woman Wisdom for Breast Cancer

Hi Susun,

One of the ladies in our church has been diagnosed with carcinoid cancer. Could you recommend an herbal treatment regimen for this kind of cancer? I will appreciate your comments.

Best wishes...

 

 

 

Hello,

At this time, Susun's schedule is such that she is no longer able to offer consultations. They may start up again in the future, but I do not know when that may be. You may wish to look over some of the articles that Susun has on her site here: http://www.breasthealthcancerprevention.com and perhaps check out her book Breast Cancer? Breast Health! The Wise Woman Way

Although the focus is on breast cancer, she covers options that are useful for all types of cancer. We also have a large health forum here: www.healingwiseforum.com that contains a lot of information in general on health and also has a room devoted to working with cancer.

We would not be able to come up with a protocol for treatment, but if you have a specific question or concern, we may be able to give you a good starting point for assistance.

 

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

Aromatase Inhibitors

Dear Susun,

Thank you (again) for all of your work. I am nearly 3 years out from breast cancer and drinking red clover infusion daily in lieu of the Tamoxifen which was prescribed. Is red clover also the answer to aromotase inhibitors? (a dear friend who is post menopausal was recently diagnosed.) I've searched my Breast Cancer? Breast Health! book but could not find the answer.
Thank you...

p.s.I'm sure you hear this all the time, but WOW! all of the yummy phyto estrogen has really made me feel wonderful. i keep thinking about the silly children's rhyme, sugar and spice and everything nice... thank you thank you thank you.

 

 

 

Hello,

Many congratulations to you! So very glad to hear how the red clover and phyto-estrogens are helping. Susun does not have email, but can be reached during her free health hotline. She will be running them every Tuesday through October from 7:30pm - 9:30pm EST at 845-246-8081.

Red clover, button mushrooms, passionflower and grape seeds are all items that are often listed as aromatase inhibitors... Perhaps your friend can call during the hotline times for Susun's thoughts on the matter. Also check out our forum at www.healingwiseforum.com in case someone there can be of assistance.

 

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

 

Flax Oil and Breast Cancer

Hello,

Bravo for your site. What do you think of the linseeds? I had a hormone dependent breast cancer. SHould I consume linseeds (flax)?

Hello,

Studies have shown flax seed is an excellent source of anti-cancer lignans. Always best to use freshly ground seed as oil goes rancid quickly. If you do buy oil, make sure it is very fresh, in a dated bottle, keep refrigerated and don't heat. Susun has more in her book, Breast Cancer? Breast Health! and you can also give Susun a call during her free health hotline on Tuesdays from 7:30pm - 9:30-pm EST at 845-246-8081.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Call our free herbal/health hot line (845-246-8081) Tuesday evenings, 7:30-9:30 pm EST, dates are April through October. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

Herbal Allies for Cystic Breasts

Hi,

I am 43 years old. I was just told I have fibrous breasts and I had a mammogram and ultrasound today to help diagnose a 'palpable mass' in my left breast. Afterwards, I was told that I have several cysts in my left breast that are considered benign but to come back for another mammogram and ultrasound in 6 months.

I am ordering Susun's book on breast health and am hoping that she has a section on disolving cysts in there. Is there an herb/infusion/oil she recommends? My goal is to have the cysts dissolved in 6 months when I go back for the ultrasound (I may forego the mammogram in favor of a thermogram, based on what Susun says about mammograms!).

I see Susun also recommends lentil soup with carrots and miso and some other herbs and spices after you have had a mammogram to restore DNA, eliminate radioactivity etc. Is there a recipe for that? I'd love to try it but have no idea what quantities are effective...help! : )

Thanks for whatever help and advice you can provide on fibrous breasts, dissolving cysts and neutralizing the effects of a mammogram.

Hello,

Susun has a lot of information on cysts in the book you ordered - so you will soon have a lot of options! A couple of things to get you started would be poultices of freshly grated burdock root or breast massages with burdock root oil.

Some good tinctures to be taking internally would be chickweed tincture or cleavers tincture, and you can also do chickweed poultices - also castor oil packs... Another great massage oil to use would be dandelion root oil. Make sure you begin incorporating seaweed into your diet if you are not already....

Are you doing infusions? If not here is a link on making them: http://www.susunweed.com/How_to_make_Infusions.htm

Start with infusions of violet leaf, red clover and nettles.

There are a number of recipes that Susun has in her book - I think this may be the one that you are talking about: http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/Weed_letter_May-02.htm#recipe2

Don't hesitate to write back if you need further assistance.

Blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

 

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Call our free herbal/health hot line (845-246-8081) Tuesday evenings, 7:30-9:30 pm EST, dates are April through October. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

Poultices for Breast Inflammation

Dear Susun weed:
 
...I have I lump in my left breast on the outside, it is painfull and visually red and feel warm to the touch...My doctor did a biopsy and said I have a rare bacteria? or an inflammatory cyst...no blood or urine was taken and I feel like doctors do not know as much as they think! I have looked at herbs and wanted to ask your opinion...my doctor gave me cipro...what would be the best combination of herbs and or diet strategys to cure a blocked breast duct or inflammatory cyst...I value your opinion!

Hello,

I would begin right away with some poultices - easiest one would be cabbage - steam whole cabbage leaves until soft and then place on the breasts. Other ones that have been effective would be violet leaf poultices, applied frequently (4-5 times a day for 5 minutes) throughout the day along with either drinking a cup of dried violet leaf infusion or using fresh violet tincture (20 drops, twice a day). Other good ideas for poultices would be using either fresh burdock leaves or grated burdock roots. All of these can help with pain and with drainage of cysts.

Making infusions: http://www.susunweed.com/How_to_make_Infusions.htm

To deal with an infection, I would take echinacea root tincture - as a curative for an already present infection, take the dosage of 1/2 drop per pound of body weight three or four times a day until fever abates, then 2 times a day for another week. Also could use the echinacea root as an infusion, drinking 2 cups daily for 5 days and then 1 cup daily for another 5 days.

Another powerful herb would be poke. Very strong and used only by the drop - you would need the tincture of fresh poke root only using 2-4 drops for the entire day and it can be combined with the echinacea.

Please let us know if you need further assistance.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team
www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

 

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Call our free herbal/health hot line (845-246-8081) Tuesday evenings, 7:30-9:30 pm EST, dates are April through October. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

 

Healthy Post-Cancer Breasts -The Wise Woman Way

Hi so great to read your tips to prevent cancer. I had breast cancer 2009, I have excess estrogen/progesterone. I took spirulina going thru radiation then daily after. I take DIM / good substance to balance hormones.

You say not take supplements...like what?

I take D3, ginger and tumeric , b12, a multivitamin

I have clinical depression for years, I am on effexor.

Any tips you could give, so I can fine tune, less is more. I walk alot, eat well as I can, I really want to take less stuff but one that I can be sure will give really powerful prevention.

Thanks...

Hello,

The Wise Woman Tradition definitely emphasizes using a good diet and nourishing herbal infusions daily as the mainstay for creating optimal health. Infusions are highly concentrated with vitamins and minerals and are vastly different than sipping on herbal teas. For most of us, the infusions are our supplements. I am including a few links on infusions here:

http://www.susunweed.com/How_to_make_Infusions.htm

http://www.susunweed.com/Weed_letter_June02.htm#surprise

Susun does not take supplements of any kind nor does she recommend their use as it is her firm belief that health does not come in a pill. When you have a whole food or herb, the vitamins and minerals in them exist with hundreds of other constituents that cause them to be much more effective than any pill. When you isolate only one part and put it in a capsule, you are losing the synergistic qualities that help your body use these vitamins and minerals to the best of their ability.

Not to say that there can't be special cases where supplements and medications need to be used, but when you are trying to build up your health, it is vital to work on a strong foundation with infusions and a healthy diet, which includes use of whole grains, organic yogurt, seaweed, lacto-fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut, and fermented soy like miso.  I am also including some links to articles you may find useful:

http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Nutrition.htm

http://www.susunweed.com/Weed_letter_October02.htm#surprise

http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Spirit_WiseWoman.htm

I would also suggest speaking directly with Susun during her free health hotline. She will be running this hotline until the middle of November on Tuesday evenings from 7:30pm - 9:30pm Eastern Standard Time. The number is 845-246-8081. If you wish to delve deeper into a particular issue, Susun also offers paid phone consultations that are made by appointment. These can be booked through our website here: http://www.herbalmedicinehealing.com/store/store_results.asp?Category=3&SubCat=1034&Section=Consultations

Just let me know I can help you in any further way.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

 

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Call our free herbal/health hot line (845-246-8081) Tuesday evenings, 7:30-9:30 pm EST, dates are April through October. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

Black Salve for Breast Lump

Dear Susun...

I have an massive, inoperable breast tumor, larger than the breast itself. I seem to be doing OK on a variety of non-standard treatments, but nothing can touch this tumor. I heard that escharotic salves could be used on such a large tumor, and I puchase a book on the topic http://www.cancersalves.com/publications/book.html.

However it seems to be long on details and short on practical help, and the author has not been helpful herself with specific information. I need someone who can supply me with a appropriate salve, instruct me on how to use it, monitor periodically, via email, photos etc. if necessary, Do you know of anyone who can help me? I am very eager to get started.

Hello,

I think the quickest way to get some help would be talking with Susun. She runs a free health hotline on Tuesday evenings from 7:30pm-9:30pm EST at 845-246-8081. She also is available for private consultations as well. These are booked through our shop here: http://www.herbalmedicinehealing.com/store/store_results.asp?Category=3&SubCat=1034&Section=Consultations

Susun does offer a recipe for black salve in her book Breast Cancer? Breast Health but it looks like you already have recipes from your book? But trying to find some salve already prepared? If at all possible, it would be best to try and prepare your own to insure quality or you can try our boards at the Wise Woman Forum. Some rooms that would be good to post in would be :

http://healingwiseforum.com/viewforum.php?f=15&sid=ff0484e25d5da1ce407291a4b25a7b87

http://healingwiseforum.com/viewforum.php?f=22&sid=ff0484e25d5da1ce407291a4b25a7b87

http://healingwiseforum.com/viewforum.php?f=2&sid=ff0484e25d5da1ce407291a4b25a7b87

You may be able to find someone who can at least supply you with salve.

I will go ahead and include Susun's recipe here in case you would like it:

Black Ointment (formula from Dr. Christopher's school of Natural Healing)

    1 part Chaparral (Larrea tridentata) twigs and leaves

    1 part Red Clover Blossoms (Trifolium pratense)

    1 part Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) root and/or leaves

    1 part Plantain (Plantago major or P. lanceolata) leaves

    1 part Chickweed (Stellaria media) herb

    1 part Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) leaves and/or flowers.

Prepared infused herbal oils with as many of these herbs as you can find fresh and in good condition. Not necessary to have them all. Melt 1 ounce/30 grams of pine tar into every 5 ounces of infused oil along with enough beeswax to make a soft ointment.

You can also use fresh or dried plants from any of the above to make a poultice.

Some from Susun in her book on black salves: "Escharotic salves usually combine one or more caustic herbs and a mineral, e.g., zinc chloride, in a fatty base. The salve is applied thickly to a bandage which is then taped over the site of the cancer and left for 24 hours, even if the area becomes hot and painful. These salves are said to dissolve or pull out cancerous masses. They may blister and discolor the skin over the cancer, which, as it dies, will form a series of scabs. These scabs must be kept moist with salve, but allowed to come off naturally. Treatment is complete and salves are discontinued when no more scabs form. A feeling of heaviness at the site of the tumor and a foul odor may accompany the treatment. Black Ointment, page 304, is a classic example of an escharotic salve. Caution: The area of application must be kept tightly taped. • Sometimes a soothing second salve, such as Yellow Salve, page 302, is alternated with the escharotic salve."

 

Also Poke root is used for large tumors - You can try grated fresh root as a poultice, this is however, very strong and can damage healthy tissue as well. Infused poke root oil can be used instead if one wishes, rubbing the oil generously over the tumor, putting a flannel cloth over it and then a hot water bottle (no heating pads). Leave on for as long as is comfortable - repeat at least twice a day.

Again, you are most welcome to set up a consultation with Susun for additional guidance. Please let me know if you need any additional assistance. We are here for you.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Join the health hotline teleseminar on Monday and Thursday evenings 8pm EST, through the winter months. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

Wise Woman Wisdom for Breast Lump

Hi

Need help, and reassurance. I do not feel that wise right now....I have a lump that started out smallish 3 years ago, since then over the past few months has increased to a large lump, walnut sized in my left breast...I did go for a ultra sound and they wanted a mammogram, core biopsy and a needle aspiration which I declined on all three. Also, I was sent to a surgeon, things were moving way to fast for the above
treatments. I left his office in total confusion and just needed time to think and feel.

In the past I was doing hot hot castor oil packs , also I did press on the area maybe too much,could this have trigged the lump to grow in size..????. I usually do homeopathic, and chinese medicine. Can
these two "alternative therapy" work together? I have ordered the book the breast stays put... just started searching the internet for help, I am really trying to stay positive and walk , run, as much as I can, although it is not easy to erase the fact it could be cancer. Part of me just wants to be blind and treat it like large lump.... I have gather seaweed from the beach and soak it as a compress it this smart... ???? Need to know where to turn. Is this something I could tackle on my own? I am open to ideas. What do you
think of Cancel .Protcel , also Lugos Iodine, Essiac tea?

I should use a chat line to talk with women who are going through the same thing now and who have already walked in my path. Thanks...

Hello,

First off sending you a lot of love and good thoughts. No matter how positive we are, it's only natural to feel overwhelmed by anxious feelings. And the doctors don't help since they are programmed to assume the worst, and immediately throw a battery of tests at us before we even have a chance to take in what is happening. Castor oil packs are great at dissolving lumps so I don't believe that anything you have been doing would be making the situation worse. Many alternative healing methods can co-exist and help one another, including Susun's recommendations. Making a poultice from seaweed sounds fine and it probably a gentle nudge from you intuition as seaweed is a component of a healthy, anti-cancer lifestyle.

I would recommend setting up a phone consultation with Susun through our bookshop. She can help explain some of the options you have at this moment. Here is the link to where you would do that:
http://www.herbalmedicinehealing.com/store/store_results.asp?Category=3&SubCat=1034&Section=Consultations

I would also join up at our free online forum: www.healingwiseforum.com. There are wise women from around the world who can be there for advice and support and we have a room dedicated to working with cancer:
http://healingwiseforum.com/viewforum.php?f=15&sid=d710a04213297609b74fa94301c0831f

Susun's book Breast Cancer? Breast Health is a tremendous resource of information and her website has articles from the book as well: http://www.breasthealthcancerprevention.com/Article_Prevent_Cancer.htm

I can tell you Susun's take on Essiac Tea - No one actually knows the original formula that Rene Caisse used as she adjusted it throughout the years. A couple of the herbs used in the formula these days are unlikely to have been part of the recipe for various reasons such as availability. Most likely the two original herbs were yellow dock and burdock roots. The Wise Woman version is called Wessiac and consists of 1 ounce of dried burdock roots, 1/2 ounce of dried yellow dock roots and 1/8 ounce of slippery elm bark, powdered. You would infuse all three herbs in 1 quart of boiling water for 8 hours, strain, refrigerate and drink 1/2 cup daily. 

Walking out of the doctor's office without immediately subjecting yourself to procedures shows a great deal of inner strength. Often the best thing is to take a moment, work on nurturing yourself and begin to gather information. 

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

 

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Join the health hotline teleseminar on Monday and Thursday evenings 8pm EST, through the winter months. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

 

 

Nutrition for Chemotherapy

Hello Susun,

My friend has just been diagnosed with lymphoma and will begin chemotherapy soon (she is 67 and ten years ago had breast cancer).

Would you have any nutritional recommendations for her during and after chemotherapy?

I have found your excellent "Immune A-Go-Go Soup" recipe on your website, and wonder if you might have any other advice related specifically to chemotherapy?

Thank you very much.

Hello,

Susun has a number of suggestions to help alleviate some of the side effects of chemotherapy. You can find a lot of information in her book Breast Cancer? Breast Health as well as articles and excerpts at the following website:

http://www.breasthealthcancerprevention.com/

Very important to maintain strong liver functions. Adding nettles to your daily diet helps prevent liver damage along with breakdown of blood and veins, anemia, fatigue, hair loss, depressed libido. Take 30 drops of milk thistle tincture right b/f chemo or no later than 15 minutes afterwards. Gingko tincture, up to 100 drops daily helps in protecting liver and is also an excellent antioxidant.

Echinacea and usnea tinctures help promote the production of white blood cells and are proven anti-tumor agents. Use either one (but not both) 25-50 drops, 2-3 times a day. Make sure you let your doctor know you are using them since it will effect your white blood count.

More foods to incorporate would be astragalus, reishi mushrooms, burdock root, dark leafy greens, apricots, sweet potatoes, winter squashes, purslane, seaweed and red clover.

Best wishes to your friend and let us know if you need any further assistance.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team
www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

 

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Join the health hotline teleseminar on Monday and Thursday evenings 8pm EST, through the winter months. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

Mammograms: Choices and Effects

Q: Hello,

My thermographer referred me to your website.

Since the labs where I live in NJ will only take a mammo although I am only interested in a sonogram, she suggested your website to proactively do something to reduce the radiations's effects.

I would sincerely appreciate any recommendations or referrals you might give me.

Thanks so much.

A: Hello, if you decide to have the mammogram, here are two articles from Susun that offer suggestions to help you deal with the damaging effects:

If You Decide to Have a Mammogram, and Surviving Radiation the Wise Woman Way.

If there is anything in there I can explain further, please let me know.  It is your body; I encourage you to give it the best care.  I know you know whatever that is for you right now!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
wisewoman@herbshealing.com
www.wisewomanweb.com

The Wise Woman Center

Q: Hi,
I am interested in finding out more about what your org. is offering.

Thanks and blessed be

 

A: Thank you for your inquiry. I assume the group you refer to is the Wise Woman Center. The Wise Woman Center was founded by Susun Weed, and resides in the Woodstock, NY area. Susun and many other teachers there offer moonlodges, work exchange days, correspondence courses, workshops, intensives and apprenticeships, to women and men (though the women-specific classes and those requiring overnight stay are usually women only). The teachings center around the Wise Woman Tradition and are primarily about herb knowledge - identifying, harvesting, preparing, and allying with - and nourishing women's health and spirituality. Susun travels the globe teaching these things as well.

Here are some links to our websites which will offer more information:

About the Wise Woman Tradition
About Susun Weed and her offerings at home and abroad, including her four books
About the Wise Woman Center and its offerings

The following websites are sponsored by Susun Weed and offer over 800 pages of free information, articles, and book excerpts. This is in addition to the wealth of information you can find shared at our very acitve international online forum. You will also see below Ash Tree Publishing, the publishing company also founded by Susun Weed that provides her four best-selling books, as well as many other treasures, including music and medicine bags.

Ash Tree Publishing Herbal Medicine Resources for women’s health and well being. Find information on menopause, fertility, pregnancy, breast care, and more. Plus books you’ll treasure & information you can trust.

Wise Woman Forum Susun Weed’s Wise Woman Forum - an open space for discussion. Make yourself at home, post a message or start a discussion. This place is for you to share your questions, concerns, and comments with other wise women and men like you. Take a moment to register and become part of the community. Enjoy!

Menopause Metamorphosis Gentle solutions for body, mind, and spirit: alternative approaches, herbal remedies, wise woman support. Your body knows more about menopause than your doctor does!

Breast Health, Cancer Prevention For women who want to maintain breast health and for women diagnosed with breast cancer. This site is designed with the purpose of empowering women in their health care choices.

Wise Woman Center Herbal Medicine and Spirit Healing Workshops, Intensives, Apprenticeship, and Correspondence Courses. Susun Weed founded the Wise Woman Center over twenty years ago with the purpose of offering a safe space for women to rediscover the Wise Woman Way. Studies include plant identification, herbal medicine, cancer prevention, women and chanting, goddess belly dancing, and feeding the creative spirit.

Healing Wise Q & A with Susun Weed

Let me know if I can explain any further!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
wisewoman@herbshealing.com
www.wisewomanweb.com

Sore Breasts

Q: Hi.. I was reading your entry about cystic breasts and that you have many remedies..

I have had horrible cystic breasts all my life.. Now 42..
Over the past months.. Instead of being swollen and cystic just a week or 10 days BEFORE my period.
They are now incredibly swollen and painful for 3 weeks of the month.
????

I can not figure out why... I am hypothyroid and take T3 & T4 for it and have for years.

I have tried edgar casey’s castor oil packs in the past.. As well as homeopathic remedies.. Which have seemed the best to rid of them..
But now that they are over a size larger just from the swelling, I am in so much discomfort I am looking for more help.

Can you recommend anything that you have found to be helpful..
I don’t drink coffee.. I do eat chocolate(oops)

Many thanks!

 

A: Have you tried any of the ideas in this article on PMS, specifically relieving sore breasts:

~20-30 drops of the tincture of cleavers, another common weed, works wonders. This plant, also called "goose grass" was used as a black tea substitute by the colonists. The dose may be repeated every hour or up to 6 times a day.

~ Women who get a lot of calcium and magnesium from their diet (leafy greens, yogurt, and many herbs are rich in these minerals) have less breast tenderness. Increase the minerals in your diet with a cup or more of red clover/mint infusion daily.

~ Large cabbage leaves, steamed whole until soft, and applied as warm as tolerable, can be used as a soothing compress on breasts which are sore and swollen.

And please let me know if I can help further as you explore your options. I am always available through email.

Blessings,
Karen Joy
wisewoman@herbshealing.com
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Karen
Thanks so much for your email, and helpful ideas..

My acupuncturist mentioned something about cabbage leaves which is why I was searching your site.. Thanks for the how too.
Does this reduce the water retension, or just ease the pain, do you know?

Also.. The link to being magnesium or calcium is very interesting.. I was told I was magnesium deficient in the fall.. So I’ll get right on that red clover/mint infusion. I am not quite sure of “infusion”.. If I get red clover tea and mint tea and steep it, is that what you mean?

Thanks so much karen.. And happy fourth!

Best.

 

A: I do believe the cabbage actually reduces some of the water retention as it is not a pain killer. Yes it is amazing how many women benefit simply for increased magnesium. An infusion differs from a tea in how much herb is used and how long it is steeped. You may use tea bags, but will have to use enough to equal on ounce of herb per quart jar you are filling. I use an ounce of Red Clover blossoms (I do not use tea bags though since I can not see the quality of the herb), and complement this with a nice pinch (or perhaps a tea bag) of dried mint. I pour boiling water over to the top of the quart jar, cover and let sit on my counter for at least 4 hours, sometimes overnight, then strain and drink.

Write any time!! I am happy to answer questions, and always enjoy hearing how you are doing, what is working or not...

love and blessings,
Karen Joy

 

Q: Karen.
Thanks SO much.. It is so wonderful for finally get some help for this.. My western docs seem so unable to me. Actually I have been trying to find a doctor who will actually work with my alternative approaches but this seems so hard to find. Upsetting, as my acupuncturist and homeopath have helped me with so much, it is upsetting to not be able to find a doc to work with them. ( note I am in boston, so if you have heard or know of a great doctor, I would love to know his/her name)

Ok.. Back to breasts! Hahah
I was introduced to a woman named Joanne Larsen, who teaches at the Bancroft School in Worcester MA. She has written a book on Self Breast Massage.. she called me on Friday and was just so fascinating all her knowledge. She told me that like the foot/reflexology, that the breast also represents every part of the body, and the nipple specifically to the glands. And to try doing the self breast massages.

With regard to the magnesium.. I am thrilled that that is so helpful. And when you say to take the Red Clover blossoms in an infusion, is that because that is stocked with magnesium? Or should I be or also be taking magnesium pills.

Thanks so much.. I can’t tell you how helpful it is to have someone who is not only able to listen.. But also have so much great help, advice and support! Perhaps that is the best medicine in itself.

Thanks so much karen.

Best..

 

A: I so much agree with you!

I can’t tell you how helpful it is to have someone who is not only able to listen.. But also have so much great help, advice and support! Perhaps that is the best medicine in itself.

This medicine can not be overlooked!! Have you ever read Susun Weed's Seven Medicines? You may enjoy it :)

Red Clover and Mint are mineral rich, specifically calcium and magnesium. I personally prefer food sources of minerals and vitamins. Some other mineral rich herbs and foods are:

Foods - leafy greens, seaweeds, nuts, whole grains, yogurt, cheese, potatoes, corn, peas, squash, beans, figs

Herbs - Oatstraw, licorice, kelp, nettle, dulse, burdock root, chickweed, althea root, horsetail, sage, saspberry leaf, red clover, valerian, yellow dock, dandelion greens, carrot tops, pastley leaf, evening primrose

These I get from Susun's New Menopausal Years book. Susun also mentions that some things that deplete magnesium are - hot flashes, night sweats, crying jags, alcohol, chemical diuretics, enemas, antibiotics, "soft" water, excessive fat intake.

Breast self massage - so lovely! I think all women should learn it, perhaps even a part of health classes for teenage girls.

lots of love,
as always write any time,
Karen Joy

"No Herbs" with cancer treatment?

Q: Hello Susun, I bought your book on breast cancer and LOVED it.

I have breast cancer and just finished TAC chemotherapy. Had surgery last week to remove tumor and now healing. In three week I have to start radiation. My immune system is very depleted from the chemo. I want to boost it and keep healthy.Doctors tell me I can't take any vitamins, minerals, herbs, antioxidants during radiation just like the chemo treatment they told me that. My cousin told me about COLOSTRUM by Symbiotics. Do you think I can take this during radiation treatment?? Are there ANY side effects of it?? Also do you know anything about Goji berry juice? I know it has antioxidants in it so I can't take it now but was thinking as soon as I am done with radiation I would start. Any information would be very appreciative.

THANKS, P.

 

A: Hello P., thank you for writing. We are glad you have and appreciate Susun's Breast Health book. Susun does not have internet in her home to be able to correspond through email. I will be sure to share your kinds words with her however :)

It is tough when the doctors tell you you can't take things you may find helpful. I think it is a broad statement to say NO supplements, herbs etc. since we use herbs in our foods and salads and teas. While I can not speak specifically about the herbs you may wish to use and the treatments you are undertaking, I think that statement by the doctors is way overgeneralized and comes from fear of the unknown. It is also an easy way to stay safe. Meanwhile though you may miss out on something you could dearly use during such a trying time. I suppose what I am saying is to explore deeper what "no herbs" means to you. Perhaps you wish not then to use any tinctures at all, but nourishing herbal infusions can be like nourishing foods. I would liken Nettle infusion in many ways to a bowl of well cooked greens. And there are wonderfully immune enhancing "herbs" that for the time being you could call foods, like garlic and ginger and oregano and marjoram. I would be eating pots of soups with these :) Unless of course the doctors you spoke with specified none of these either.

I have heard recently of colostrum, and personally have a hard time with it simply because I think it was meant for a baby calf and was diverted into our hands So I have not researched it much, though do know the source I heard it recommended was one I trust greatly. This would not count as a supplement? I know little about goji berries.

I would love to invite you to our Wise Woman Forum and Email groups accessed through www.wisewomanweb.com for more ideas and support. There you may find others who know more about these resources, as well as more details about what is and is not contraindicated during the treatments you are having, should you wish to question any particulars.

My thoughts and love are with you. I wish I could answer your questions more directly, and do hope you make use of the above resources in your search for how to best care for yourself during this time!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
wisewoman@herbshealing.com
www.wisewomanweb.com